City of Petoskey

The public is invited to attend a groundbreaking ceremony at the Petoskey Breakwater at 12:30 P.M., Saturday, October 30, of the repaired United States Army Corps of Engineer's Breakwall.  The Petoskey Breakwater suffered structural damage to a 50-foot segment from a major storm event in November, 2005; in March, 2006, a second major storm event caused structural failure and collapse of the 50-foot segment, resulting in a 50-foot breech in the breakwater.

The Army Corps then sought funds for repairs to the breakwater, and Petoskey officials contacted Senator Levin, Senator Stabenow, and Congressman Stupak's offices seeking their aid to secure repair monies for the project.  In Fall, 2006, the Army Corps made temporary repairs to the Breakwater and began engineering for permanent repairs.

In 2008, the Army Corps secured funding and contracted with IMS, Escanaba, for reconstruction of the outer 295 feet of the breakwater structure, along with its subcontractor Roen Salvage, Sturgeon Bay, Wisconsin.  In 2009, the Corps received funding for a second phase of breakwater reconstruction from the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act that totaled $3,790,996.  This contract was let August 9, 2009, and the project was completed October 8, 2010, again by IMS with its subcontractor Durocher Marine, Cheboygan.  All material suppliers were Michigan based.

This project totalled approximately $7 million and has insured continuance of a Harbor of Refuge, protection of vital City infrastructure improvements along its waterfront, and has allowed for continued protection of the City of Petoskey Marina and its patrons.

Mayor Pro-Tem William Fraser will represent the City at the groundbreaking ceremony where thanks will be given to Senators Levin and Stabenow, and Congressman Stupak.  Also special thanks will go to Lt. Col. Michael Derosier, Detroit District of the US Army Corps of Engineers, Detroit District; Thomas O'Brien, PE, and staff, US Army Corps of Engineers, Lake Michigan Area Office, Grand Haven; as well as IMS, Roen Salvage, Durocher Marine, and their suppliers.